Terroir
Bodegas Aalto’s 2023 comes from carefully selected vineyards in Ribera del Duero, situated on high plateaus between 750–900 meters above sea level. The soils are a complex mosaic of limestone, clay, and alluvial deposits, providing excellent drainage and concentration for the Tempranillo grapes.

The 2023 vintage experienced a warm, steady growing season, producing grapes with optimal ripeness, healthy acidity, and small berry size. The continental climate of Ribera del Duero, with hot days and cool nights, encourages the development of structured, expressive wines with both power and elegance.

Winemaking & Technical Notes
This wine is predominantly Tempranillo (locally Tinto Fino), sourced from estate and selected old-vine vineyards. Grapes are hand harvested and carefully sorted before fermentation in stainless steel and small oak vats to control extraction.

Maceration is tailored to balance color, tannin, and aromatic intensity. The wine is aged for approximately 12–14 months in French oak barrels, a portion new, to enhance structure and add subtle layers of spice, vanilla, and toast. Minimal intervention ensures the vineyard character remains central.

Tasting Notes
The 2023 pours a deep ruby with violet reflections. Aromatically, it opens with black cherry, plum, and cassis layered with cocoa, espresso, and subtle dried herbs. Notes of graphite, cedar, and crushed stone add dimension.

On the palate, the wine is full-bodied with concentrated dark fruit framed by fine, polished tannins and bright, persistent acidity. Secondary nuances of tobacco, spice, and mineral undertones add complexity, while the texture is smooth yet structured.

The finish is long and elegant, carrying black fruit, spice, and subtle mineral tension.

Food Pairing & Service
Serve at 60–65°F and decant for 60–90 minutes to reveal full aromatics. Pairs beautifully with roasted lamb, grilled ribeye, game meats, or aged Manchego. It also complements slow-cooked stews and richly spiced dishes.

The wine’s balance of structure and elegance makes it versatile for both hearty and refined cuisine.

Cellaring & Longevity
The 2023 vintage possesses the structure and concentration to age gracefully for 12–18 years. While approachable in its youth with decanting, optimal drinking is expected from 2027 onward.

With time, primary dark fruit will evolve toward leather, dried fig, earthy spice, and tobacco, gaining complexity while retaining a vibrant core. Properly cellared, it will remain expressive and elegant through the late 2030s, reflecting the pedigree of Bodegas Aalto.